Because of the anatomical position and its unique vascular system, the liver is susceptible to the exposure to the
microbial products from the gut. Although large amount of microbes colonize in the gut, translocation of the microbes
or microbial products into the liver and systemic circulation is prevented by gut epithelial barrier function and cleansing
and detoxifying functions of the liver in healthy subjects. However, when the intestinal barrier function is disrupted, large
amount of bacterial products can enter into the liver and systemic circulation and induce inflammation through their
receptors. Nowadays, there have been various reports suggesting the role of gut flora and bacterial translocation in the
pathogenesis of chronic liver disease and portal hypertension. This review summarizes the current knowledge about
bacterial translocation and its contribution to the pathogenesis of chronic liver diseases and portal hypertension.